Description
Book SynopsisYears ago, powerful sorcerers waged a terrible war, unleashing strange monsters and a deadly plague that swept over the land. Now the people of Vittoria never leave the safety of their high walls except to hunt and scavenge nearby. Venturing farther is strictly forbidden by the town council, and no one has ever survived an attempt-including Octavia's sister, Hana. But one day, the impossible happens: Octavia is stuck outside the walls at nighttime, and she meets a stranger. Everything Octavia thought she knew is called into question, and so she embarks on an epic quest to uncover the truth of her town, the rest of the world, and her own family. Packed with twists, frightening monsters, and timely themes, this is a page-turning fantasy adventure by the critically acclaimed Kali Wallace.
Trade ReviewA Kids’ Indie Next List Pick“Reminiscent in feel to Kelly Barnhill's
The Girl Who Drank the Moon, this lovely fantasy introduces a complicated, brave, and believable heroine navigating grief, friendship, and the possible first stirrings of a (same-sex) crush while asking hard questions about power and community. . . . An absolute delight.”—
Kirkus Reviews, starred review
“Richly detailed magical lore, gripping action, and frightening fantastical creatures are grounded by well-rounded characters and the girls’ blossoming friendship.”—
Publishers Weekly“A fantastical adventure through a world of magic and monsters. . . . A strong pick for fans of another hard-to-put-down fantasy about discovering truth, Kelly Barnhill’s
The Girl Who Drank the Moon.”—
Booklist“A rare look at a post-apocalyptic world for the middle-grade set. . . . Octavia, kind, brave, and insatiably curious, is a compelling protagonist to lead the way toward a new world.”—
The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books“Fascinating, atmospheric…a coming-of-age novel in a dystopian fantasy world filled with monsters, corruption, and magic.”—
Brightly“A compelling read.”—
Imagination Soup“I absolutely loved this book. Octavia is a heroine for the ages.”—Ronald L. Smith, award-winning author of
Hoodoo and
Black Panther: The Young Prince
